Theorizing on the connection between organizational and individual mindfulness

Abstract

This paper explores the relationship between individual mindfulness and organizational mindfulness. Many authors consider these concepts to be related and interlocked, however, the exact nature of this connection is still unclear. Therefore, we investigate the link between these two concepts using both literature review approach and theoretical reflection. The results of the literature review are classified and synthesized in a constructive way into a theoretical framework that sheds light on the main aspects of the relationship between individual and collective mindfulness. Our research shows that the existence of organizational mindfulness implies the existence of mindfulness on the individual level. Individual mindfulness is a necessary, but not sufficient condition to developing organizational mindfulness. Additional factors other than individual mindfulness must be included in order to increase organizational mindfulness. The reason for this is the difference between individual mindfulness, an intrapsychic process of individuals, and organizational mindfulness, which is a function of social procedures in an organization.